Drill choice as a modifiable factor in pediatric sEEG safety

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Devices
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) requires precise burr hole creation for electrode placement.
• Current sEEG practices often repurpose orthopedic drills, which may lack optimal characteristics.
• Key drilling parameters for sEEG include haptic feedback, ease of use, and efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel neurosurgery-tailored drill (Phasor®) for sEEG procedures.
• To compare the performance of the Phasor® drill against a repurposed orthopedic drill (Stryker®).
• To assess drilling characteristics such as time efficiency, haptic feedback, and safety.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing sEEG from 2022-2023.
• Patients were grouped based on the drill used: Phasor® (neurosurgery-tailored) or Stryker® (orthopedic).
• Data collected included number of electrodes placed, operative duration, and complications.

Main Results:

• The Phasor® drill group (12 patients) showed consistent burr hole creation time (<15s) and noted tactile bony feedback.
• The Stryker® drill group (5 patients) exhibited variable drill times and one complication (skin burn leading to infection).
• Mean operative duration was comparable, but the Phasor® drill offered subjective improvements in consistency and safety.

Conclusions:

• The Phasor® drill is a lightweight, reliable, and efficient option for sEEG burr hole creation.
• It provides consistent drilling performance and improved safety compared to repurposed orthopedic drills.
• The Phasor® drill is a viable alternative for neurosurgical procedures requiring precise burr hole creation.